Repair Cavities and Damaged Teeth Without Noticeable Metal Fillings
A cavity, small chip or damaged filling does not have to affect the appearance of your smile. Tooth-colored fillings restore damaged teeth using durable composite resin that can be matched to your natural tooth shade.
At Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill, Dr. Benjamin Sharfae, DDS, and Dr. Maggie Sharfae, DDS, provide tooth-colored dental fillings in Austin, TX, to repair cavities and minor tooth damage while preserving healthy tooth structure whenever possible.
Both dentists have extensive restorative dentistry experience, with Dr. Maggie Sharfae practicing since 1999 and Dr. Benjamin Sharfae since 2001. Our approach combines careful treatment planning, attention to detail and restorations designed for comfortable function and a natural appearance.
Have a cavity, chipped tooth or damaged filling? Call 512-301-9002 today to schedule an appointment at Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill in Austin, Texas.
What Are Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings, also called composite resin fillings or white dental fillings, are restorations used to repair teeth affected by decay, minor fractures or other limited damage.
Composite resin is made from a blend of resin and finely ground inorganic filler particles. The material is available in different shades, allowing our dentists to select a color that closely matches your surrounding tooth structure.
Unlike traditional silver-colored amalgam fillings, composite fillings bond to the prepared tooth using dental adhesive techniques.
They are commonly used to:
- Repair cavities caused by tooth decay
- Restore small chips or fractures
- Replace damaged or failing fillings
- Repair certain areas of tooth wear
- Improve the appearance of selected minor tooth imperfections
Composite fillings can be used on front and back teeth when the size and location of the restoration make them appropriate.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Composite resin fillings offer several advantages for patients who want to restore damaged teeth while maintaining a natural-looking smile.
- Natural appearance: The material can be matched to your tooth color, making fillings less noticeable when you smile or speak.
- Conservative treatment: Composite fillings often allow dentists to preserve more healthy tooth structure than certain traditional restoration techniques.
- Bonded restoration: Dental adhesives help attach the composite material to the prepared tooth.
- Versatile repairs: Composite resin can restore cavities, small chips and selected areas of wear.
- Metal-free material: Composite fillings do not contain the mercury alloy used in dental amalgam.
- Efficient treatment: Most routine composite fillings can be completed during a single appointment.
The best filling material depends on the tooth’s condition, the size of the cavity and the forces placed on the restoration.
Tooth-Colored Fillings vs. Silver Amalgam Fillings
Both composite resin and dental amalgam have been used successfully to restore teeth affected by decay.
Composite fillings are tooth-colored and bond to the tooth using adhesive techniques. They are often preferred when appearance and conservative tooth preparation are important considerations.
Amalgam fillings are silver-colored restorations made from a mixture of metals, including mercury. They have a long history of use and may offer durability advantages in certain situations.
Although composite fillings are mercury-free, that does not mean intact amalgam fillings are automatically unsafe or should routinely be removed. The FDA does not recommend replacing sound amalgam fillings solely to eliminate mercury exposure.
At Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill, our dentists evaluate existing restorations and recommend replacement when there is a clinical reason, such as decay, fracture, deterioration or another restorative concern.
What to Expect During Your Dental Filling Appointment
Getting a tooth-colored filling is generally a straightforward procedure that can be completed in one visit.
1. Examination and Diagnosis
Your dentist examines the affected tooth and may recommend dental X-rays to evaluate the extent of decay or damage.
We determine whether a filling is appropriate or whether the tooth requires a different restoration.
2. Removing Decay or Damaged Material
Local anesthesia may be used to keep you comfortable.
Your dentist removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth while preserving healthy structure whenever possible.
3. Placing the Composite Filling
The prepared tooth is treated with appropriate bonding materials, and composite resin is placed and shaped to restore the missing structure.
A specialized curing light hardens the material according to the restorative technique.
4. Adjusting and Polishing
Your dentist checks the filling’s shape and how your teeth come together when you bite.
The restoration is adjusted and polished to create a smooth finish and comfortable fit.
Our team will explain any aftercare instructions and what to expect as the anesthesia wears off.
How Long Do Tooth-Colored Fillings Last?
Composite fillings can provide many years of service, although their lifespan depends on the size and location of the restoration, oral hygiene, bite forces and daily habits.
Smaller fillings generally face different stresses than large restorations on back teeth.
To help maintain your fillings:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day to clean between your teeth.
- Maintain regular dental examinations and cleanings.
- Avoid chewing ice or using your teeth to open packages.
- Tell your dentist if you grind or clench your teeth.
- Contact our office if a filling becomes loose, breaks or causes persistent discomfort.
Routine examinations help our dentists monitor existing fillings and identify concerns before more extensive damage develops.
When Is a Filling Not Enough to Repair a Tooth?
Tooth-colored fillings are generally appropriate for small to moderate areas of damage. However, a tooth with extensive decay, a large fracture or insufficient remaining structure may need additional protection.
In these situations, a dental crown may provide a more suitable restoration.
If decay or infection reaches the tooth’s pulp, root canal therapy may be necessary before the tooth can be restored.
Our dentists recommend treatment based on the condition of the tooth rather than automatically choosing the most extensive procedure.
Learn more about our restorative dentistry services.
Experienced Dentists Providing Natural-Looking Restorations
At Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill, tooth-colored fillings are provided by dentists with decades of restorative experience.
Dr. Maggie Sharfae, DDS, graduated from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School in 1999 and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the VA Medical Center in Indianapolis from 1999 to 2000.
Dr. Benjamin Sharfae, DDS, graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry in 2001. His clinical background includes restorative dentistry, crowns, bridges and comprehensive dental rehabilitation.
Both dentists have taught at Indiana University School of Dentistry and are members of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association and Capital Area Dental Society.
Our privately owned practice emphasizes personalized care, attention to detail and long-term oral health. We take the time to explain your treatment options and recommend restorations appropriate for your dental needs.
Tooth-Colored Fillings in Oak Hill and Southwest Austin
Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill provides composite dental fillings for patients in Austin, Oak Hill, Southwest Austin and surrounding communities.
Whether you need a cavity filled, want a damaged restoration evaluated or have chipped a tooth, our dentists can help determine the appropriate treatment.
Our goal is to restore comfortable function while maintaining the natural appearance of your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth-Colored Fillings
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
Composite fillings can last for many years with appropriate care. Their lifespan depends on the size and location of the filling, oral hygiene, bite forces and the condition of the surrounding tooth. Regular dental visits help monitor restorations for wear or damage.
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver fillings?
Modern composite materials are durable and appropriate for many front and back teeth. However, amalgam may offer advantages in certain high-stress situations. Our dentists recommend a restoration based on the size of the cavity, tooth location and individual needs.
Do tooth-colored fillings hurt?
Local anesthesia is commonly used when treating cavities to minimize discomfort. Some temporary sensitivity may occur after a filling. Contact our office if pain is severe, persistent or worsening.
How long does it take to get a composite filling?
Most routine composite fillings can be completed during a single appointment. The exact time depends on the size and location of the cavity and the number of teeth being treated.
Can tooth-colored fillings be used on back teeth?
Yes. Composite resin is commonly used to restore both front and back teeth. The suitability of a filling depends on the amount of remaining tooth structure, restoration size and bite forces.
Should I replace my silver fillings with white fillings?
Not necessarily. Intact amalgam fillings generally do not need replacement solely because they contain mercury. If an existing filling is damaged, leaking or affected by new decay, our dentists can evaluate whether replacement is appropriate.
How much do tooth-colored fillings cost in Austin, TX?
The cost depends on the size and location of the cavity, the number of tooth surfaces involved and your treatment needs. Dental insurance may cover composite fillings depending on your plan. Our team can discuss recommended treatment and associated costs during your appointment.
Where can I get tooth-colored fillings in Oak Hill, Austin?
Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill provides composite dental fillings for patients in Oak Hill, Southwest Austin and surrounding communities. Dr. Maggie Sharfae and Dr. Benjamin Sharfae have practiced restorative dentistry since 1999 and 2001, respectively. Call our office to schedule an appointment.
Restore Your Tooth With a Natural-Looking Filling
A cavity, small chip or damaged restoration does not have to compromise your smile. Tooth-colored fillings can help restore strength, function and appearance while preserving healthy tooth structure when appropriate.
At Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill, our experienced dentists provide personalized restorative care for patients throughout Austin, Oak Hill and Southwest Austin.
Ready to repair your smile? Call 512-301-9002 today to schedule your tooth-colored dental filling appointment in Austin, Texas.
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Does getting a composite filling hurt?
Local anesthesia is commonly used when treating cavities to minimize discomfort. Some temporary sensitivity may occur after the procedure, particularly with deeper fillings. Contact our office if pain is severe, persistent or worsening.
Can tooth-colored fillings be used on back teeth?
Yes. Composite resin is commonly used to restore cavities in molars and premolars when appropriate. Larger restorations or teeth exposed to substantial chewing forces may require another restorative approach.
Should I replace my old silver fillings with white fillings?
Not necessarily. An intact amalgam filling does not automatically need replacement. Our dentists can evaluate older restorations and discuss replacement when there is decay, fracture, deterioration or another clinical concern.
How much do tooth-colored fillings cost in Austin, TX?
The cost depends on the size of the cavity, the tooth being treated and the number of surfaces requiring restoration. Dental insurance may cover part of the cost depending on your plan. Our team can explain recommended treatment and associated costs during your appointment.
How soon can I eat after a tooth-colored filling?
Composite resin is hardened during placement, but you should wait until any local anesthesia has worn off before chewing to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Follow any additional instructions provided by your dentist.
Where can I get tooth-colored fillings in Oak Hill, Austin?
Modern Family Dentistry of Oak Hill provides tooth-colored composite fillings for patients in Oak Hill, Southwest Austin and surrounding communities. Dr. Benjamin Sharfae and Dr. Maggie Sharfae offer restorative dental care focused on protecting natural teeth and maintaining comfortable function.